Hemochromatosis
What Does It Mean?
Hemochromatosis is a condition characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the body, leading to oxidative stress, organ damage, and metabolic dysfunction. It can be genetic (hereditary hemochromatosis) due to mutations in the HFE gene or secondary, resulting from conditions such as chronic liver disease, excessive iron supplementation, or frequent blood transfusions.
Root Causes & Imbalances
- Iron overload leading to free radical damage and oxidative stress
- Impaired iron metabolism causing iron accumulation in the liver, pancreas, heart, and joints
- Inflammation and oxidative stress contributing to tissue damage
- Dysregulated ferritin and transferrin levels, impairing iron storage and transport
- Liver dysfunction, affecting iron regulation and overall detoxification
How Did We Get Here?
Signs & Symptoms of Hemochromatosis
Patients with iron overload may present with:
- Fatigue and weakness due to mitochondrial damage from excess iron
- Joint pain and arthritis from iron deposition in tissues
- Abdominal pain and liver dysfunction leading to hepatomegaly or cirrhosis
- Bronzed or gray skin pigmentation due to iron deposition
- Diabetes or insulin resistance from pancreatic iron accumulation
- Heart abnormalities (arrhythmias, cardiomyopathy) due to iron buildup in cardiac tissue
- Low libido and hormone imbalances from pituitary dysfunction
Lab Test Findings
| Lab Test | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| % Transferrin | Increased | 24.00-35.00 % |
| AST (SGOT) | Increased | 10.00-26.00 U/L |
| Ferritin | Increased | 45.00-79.00 ng/mL |
| Iron (Total) | Increased | 85.00-130.00 µg/dL |
| Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC) | Decreased | 250.00-350.00 µg/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach
Treatment focuses on reducing iron levels, improving detoxification, minimizing oxidative stress, and preventing tissue damage.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress from iron overload | 2 capsules without food, daily |
| Vita B Methyl | Supports methylation and detoxification pathways | 1 capsule without food, daily |
| Vita-Glutathione | Provides antioxidant protection against free radical damage | 3 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Advaclear | Supports liver detox pathways and iron metabolism | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Reduce iron intake (limit red meat, organ meats, and fortified cereals)
- Increase polyphenols (green tea, turmeric, and black coffee can inhibit iron absorption)
- Optimize liver function through cruciferous vegetables and detox-supporting foods
- Regular phlebotomy or blood donation to lower iron stores if medically indicated
- Avoid vitamin C with meals as it enhances iron absorption